The European transport sector is facing an immediate threat as surging diesel prices and tightening fuel supplies put immense pressure on operators. The International Road Transport Union (IRU) has issued an urgent call to the European Commission, warning that without a coordinated response, the stability of global logistics chains—and the flow of goods to businesses and households—is at high risk.
In a formal letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the IRU outlined three critical pillars to stabilize the market and support operators through this disruption:
-
Coordinated Release of Strategic Reserves: Synchronizing the release of oil reserves across EU Member States to increase supply.
-
Taxation Flexibility: Enabling temporary adjustments to fuel excise duties to alleviate the financial burden on transport companies.
-
Targeted State Aid: Allowing specific crisis support for transport SMEs under EU state aid rules to prevent widespread financial distress.
Why the Logistics Chain is at Risk
The current volatility is largely driven by disruptions to maritime energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz, which are already impacting EU fuel prices and availability.
With over 90% of the EU truck fleet relying on diesel, any scarcity in fuel doesn’t just stay at the pump—it immediately slows down the delivery of essential freight. Reports from IRU members suggest that supplier-level rationing is already emerging in certain markets, as suppliers prioritize heating oil over transport diesel.
The Economic Impact
For road freight operators, fuel typically accounts for one-third of total operating costs. Given that many of these companies operate on razor-thin margins of around 2%, there is virtually no capacity to absorb these sudden price shocks.
IRU Secretary General Umberto de Pretto emphasized the gravity of the situation:
“If diesel supply is disrupted, the effects will be felt immediately across EU logistics networks… Coordinated EU action is essential to avoid fragmented national responses and ensure that logistics chains continue to function.”
Looking Ahead
Without rapid intervention, the risk of a fragmented European market grows. Divergent national responses could distort competition and undermine the EU’s single market, further destabilizing the mobility systems that global trade relies upon.
The IRU continues to urge the Commission to align with the International Energy Agency to secure strategic reserves and provide a temporary crisis framework that ensures transport capacity remains intact.
